IDF on ‘alert for surprises’ as US mulls strikes, Iran threatens preemptive attacks

Israeli hospitals were instructed to extend emergency readiness measures imposed during the 12-day war with Iran as the military prepares for “surprise scenarios.” 

By World Israel News Staff

Israel’s military has been placed on high alert, the army’s top spokesperson said Monday, amid concerns the country could be confronted with a “surprise scenario” involving Iran, as tensions escalate in the region and with the Trump administration mulling strikes on the Islamic Republic.

Chief IDF spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin pushed back on claims that Israel is planning to initiate hostilities with Iran, emphasizing that the IDF’s stance is defensive.

The IDF, Defrin wrote in a post on X, is prepared “and on alert” for possible “surprise” attacks.

“In recent days, many rumors have spread against the backdrop of the situation in Iran,” Defrin wrote.

“As was clarified previously, the IDF is prepared for defense and on alert for surprise scenarios if required. The protests in Iran are an internal matter.”

“We continue to conduct ongoing situation assessments and will update on any changes if and when they occur.”

At the same time, Israel’s medical system has been ordered to prepare for a possible national emergency.

On Monday, the Health Ministry circulated a memo to hospital directors, HMO administrators, and various health department specialists, instructing them to maintain the high level of readiness imposed during the 12-day war with Iran in June and to be prepared to transition rapidly to emergency wartime protocols.

Senior Iranian officials have threatened to target Israel for retaliation in the event that American forces strike the Islamic Republic.

Iran has also indicated it could carry out preemptive strikes on Israel or American assets.

Israel believes the US will carry out strikes on Iran in the near future, Kan reported, with ballistic missile attacks by Iran on Israel likely to follow.